posted 16 Dec 2020
Blue Room
“I love it here. I’m with all my mates and I like the staff. I like drawing and painting and going in the gallery. When I come here I feel really good.” Donald, Blue Room member
Blue Room is Bluecoat’s inclusive arts programme for learning disabled adults. Since 2008, three groups of Blue Room artists have met weekly at the gallery to explore the exhibitions and create their own art work. Members are supported to develop creative and social skills, building confidence and greater independence.
Blue Room artists gain confidence in interacting with contemporary art and sharing their ideas with others. The programme is rich and varied, exploring a wide range of media and creative expression including drawing, painting, textiles, photography, sculpture, animation and performance.
The groups have access to unique resources such as Bluecoat Print Studio and collaborate with local and international contemporary artists. Recently, Blue Room members have been expanding their practice by working with our resident dance artists Liverpool Improvisation Collection (LIC) and contributing to the INHABIT programme of new dance.
In addition to weekly creative sessions, Bluecoat’s team of facilitators and volunteers support members to integrate within the creative community of the building and take part in the cultural life of the city. Blue Room are invited to attend regular events and exhibition openings at Bluecoat. Membership also enables access to supported volunteering opportunities. Blue Room artists share their skills as workshop assistants for the Out of the Blue programme of after school art clubs for children.
Blue Room sessions take place for 50 weeks per year. Some Blue Room members access personal budgets to fund their attendance, whilst other self-fund their places.
Blue Room have space for new members and sometimes have vacancies for new volunteers. If you would like to find out more or enquire about membership please get in touch
Contact Us:
Kat Shock, Participation Coordinator, telephone 0151 702 7761 or email katrina.s@thebluecoat.org.uk
Becky Waite, Blue Room Facilitator, telephone 0151 709 5297 or email becky.w@thebluecoat.org.uk
Click here to read the Blue Room Blog
Follow us on Twitter @BlueRoomLiv
Follow us on Instagram @Blue_Room_Inclusive_Arts
Blue Room at Halton
We have recently started a new Blue Room group at Norton Priory Museum & Gardens in Runcorn. Click here to find out more.